Groups push New York state to set safety level for PFOA

“HOOSICK FALLS, N.Y. >> Several environmental, civic and research groups recently sent a letter to the Department of Health expressing their support for establishing Maximum Contaminant Levels for PFOA, PFOS, and 1,4-dioxane that are based on the best available science, as well as their support for universal testing of emerging contaminants in New York state…

‘With the drinking water crises in Hoosick Falls, Petersburgh, Newburgh, and on Long Island, and as the federal government abnegates its responsibility to prioritize the health and safety of its citizens, it is imperative that New York state lead the way on setting strong clean water safeguards,’ the more than a dozen groups wrote in part of the letter.

The group of organizations also listed out three different recommendations for how New York could lead the country in protecting public health against those types of chemicals. The listed recommendations from the letter states that they believe they should establish a combined MCL of 4 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFOA and PFOS;Establish an MCL no higher than 0.3 parts per billion (ppb) for 1,4- dioxane; and immediately adopt regulations to require statewide testing of emerging contaminants.

‘While EPA is busy doing more to protect polluters’ pocketbooks than the public’s health, New York must lead on protecting our drinking water from dangerous chemicals. The longer the state delays adopting appropriate MCLs for PFOA, PFOS, and 1,4-dioxane and puts off testing for emerging contaminants, the longer communities across the state are at risk when they turn on the tap. When New York leads, the nation follows. We cannot afford to wait to ensure every citizen has access to drinking water that doesn’t make them sick,’ said Liz Moran, water & natural resources director for Environmental Advocates of New York.”